Holly Ridge Buonaiuto, of Orr’s Island, passed away peacefully with family by her side on Nov. 21, 2024.
Daughter of John and Ann Ridge, Holly was born on Dec. 15, 1964, in Portland, Maine. After Holly graduated from Cape Elizabeth High School, she went on to study graphic design at Chamberlain Jr. College. After graduating, she started her job at Universal Engineering in Boston, Massachusetts, where she met her husband, Andy. The couple went on to have two children, Thomas Buonaiuto and Mary Rose “Rosie” Buonaiuto. They were her most proud accomplishment. Her motherly love and warmth were not limited exclusively to her kids. Her generous spirit made everyone she encountered feel welcome and like part of the family. She was an incredible advocate and always stood up for others and what was right.
Holly had true creative talent and went on to pursue a variety of professions. Her most passionate line of work was her time as a master gardener. She had a strong connection to nature and was always happiest with her hands in the dirt.
Holly was predeceased by her father, John Ridge. Her fiery spirit will be lovingly remembered and carried on by her loving husband, Andrew Buonaiuto; her children, Thomas Buonaiuto and Mary Rose “Rosie” Buonaiuto; her mother, Ann Ridge; her brothers, Thomas Ridge and Douglas Ridge and his wife, Joanne Ridge; and countless friends and those whom she made feel like family.
A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2024, at the Orr’s Island Schoolhouse, from 1-4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Beacon Hospice or Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.
To share your thoughts and condolences with the family, please visit desmondfuneralhomes.com.
